Eymard “Bob” Basch Jr. age 72 suddenly passed away Friday, January 27, 2017 in Niceville surrounded by family. Bob was born 1944 in Los Angeles, California. He attended UCLA. In California he had worked for Menasco where he was involved in manufacturing the landing gear for the Space Shuttle Columbia. He retired from his “work-family” Physics International/Primex/General Dynamics after 31 years of proud service, related to ordnance used by our military.

Some of his accomplishments & affiliations included: Grand Knight in Knights of Columbus, Galpin Ford Mustang Club (president), Marriage Encounter, Red Cross Volunteer, Genealogical Society of Okaloosa County (treasurer), served the church in many capacities including as a Eucharistic minister and lector.

He was an avid season ticket holder for Niceville High School Football and enjoyed watching his granddaughters in the Eagle Pride Band. He even became an Auburn fan after Eli Stove’s recruitment. He loved cooking, spending time with family and taking his grandchildren to historic sites & museums. Some of his other hobbies & interests included; wine, history, genealogy, trivia, military aircraft & ordnance, space program, muscle cars, automotive racing and reading.

He was preceded in death by his father Eymard Basch Sr. and stepfather William Elsberry

To cherish his memories he leaves behind his wife of 51 years, Suzanne “Sue”, son Eymard “Bobby” Basch III with his wife Kathy, daughter Charlene Figueroa with her husband David, mother Mercedes Elsberry, brothers Patrick Basch & John “Jack” Elsberry, sister Marge Lanham, treasured grandchildren William Basch, Elise Figueroa, Tiffany Basch & Luke Basch, many nieces & nephews and other family members, as well as “adopted” family & friends. His smiles, humor & great hugs will be missed by all of us.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida at 115 Westview Ave. Valparaiso, FL 32580 or one of your favorite charities.